Hospitality venues in Vitoria-Gasteiz are subject to daily inspections by the City Council's Public Health Service, aimed at detecting irregularities or health risks for customers. Last year, 2025, a total of 1,221 visits were conducted, averaging over three inspections per working day.

The city hosts 2,136 establishments, with each being visited at least once every two years. However, upon receiving a complaint or citizen alert, an immediate inspection is carried out. In fact, 19 complaints were processed in 2025 related to such issues.

Inspectors verify the condition of food products and ensure there are no health risks during handling. This involves checking relevant permits, the state of facilities and equipment, as well as handling processes, product packaging and labeling, and their traceability.

These inspections extend beyond restaurants to include elderly care homes, other collective dining facilities, and retail food businesses such as greengrocers, bakeries, and convenience stores. They also monitor markets and occasional events where food products are served.

In 2026, microbiological and allergen control campaigns are underway in these establishments. For the Christmas season, campaigns will focus on detecting sulfites in festive food products.

In cases of non-compliance, the primary objective is to safeguard customer health. Following a complaint or suspected intoxication, coordination with the Basque Government occurs, the establishment is visited, and necessary samples are taken. Corrective measures, potentially including the sealing of the premises, are then implemented, followed by the opening of a sanctioning file.

In 2025, among all complaints received, a potential outbreak was investigated, though its foodborne origin could not be confirmed, and no sanctions were issued.

Public Health also intervenes in response to Spanish or European alerts regarding batches of substandard products, removing them from the market to prevent risks to customers in Vitoria-Gasteiz.